North Island College appoints new business school chair

There is a new face at the helm of North Island College’s business programs.

In January, economics instructor Ali Mayboudi was appointed as the new chair of the NIC School of Business.

Mayboudi, who hails from Iran, has taught at NIC’s Comox Valley campus since early 2015.

He has a bachelor’s of engineering degree from the University of Tehran, a master’s degree in business administration from Eastern Mediterranean University in Cyprus and a second master’s degree in economics from Simon Fraser University.

Prior to joining NIC, Mayboudi worked as a consultant for World Vision Canada, lectured at Queen’s University and was a teaching assistant at Simon Fraser.

He takes over the role from the previous business chair Bill Parkinson, who is currently acting as NIC’s associate dean for arts, science, and technology until June.

“This is a very exciting position,” said Mayboudi. “It requires me to deal with different demands raised by instructors. My colleagues, faculty members, and administration will find proper ways to address [those demands] properly.”

According to Mayboudi, the priority for NIC’s business programs will be to continue connecting students with industry and business professionals.

He mentioned the community college’s current partnerships with the Chartered Professional Accountants Canada, the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Global Leaders of Tomorrow Mentorship Program.

“[Another] thing we’re hoping to do is engage in further communication with business owners and invite them to bring their own projects to the school,” he said.

The NIC School of Business offers one-year certificate programs, two-year diploma programs, and a four-year bachelor degree program in business administration. This spring, more than 120 students will have graduated from the bachelor’s degree since it started.

The college also offers shorter business-related courses online.

“One other initiative we are exploring is…offering more online and blend courses,” said Mayboudi.

Disciplines offered through the school include marketing, accounting, general management, and other business-related focuses.

There are currently 315 students registered in business programs at NIC and 221 students registered in applied business technology programs.